Highlights
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 will feature remakes of all 16 6v6 multiplayer maps from Modern Warfare 2, which can please veteran fans and provide a strong start for the game.
The remastered approach to map design in MW3 offers a commendable aspect as it provides a larger quantity of maps at launch compared to previous titles, despite potential drawbacks of not aligning well with the fast-paced nature of the original maps.
Details regarding Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 have emerged, indicating that the game is shaping up nicely for its release in November. One aspect of the game that has garnered significant attention is the inclusion of remade maps from the popular MW2, pleasing long-time fans of the franchise.
While the addition of these nostalgic maps contributes to the game's appeal and ensures a substantial number of maps upon release, there are also drawbacks to consider. The contrast between the gameplay mechanics of Modern Warfare 3 and previous titles like MW2 could diminish the experience on these new maps, highlighting the disconnect between the traditional Call of Duty formula and its more methodical modern iteration.
The Benefits and Worries of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's MW2 Map Remake Approach
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 has confirmed that all 16 of the original 6v6 multiplayer maps from Modern Warfare 2 will be included in the game's release. This is expected to generate tremendous excitement, as the MW2 maps are widely cherished by fans throughout the franchise. While certain MW2 maps such as Rust have reappeared in recent CoD titles, the remastering in MW3 will breathe new life into less well-known maps. The enduring popularity of these classic maps has already piqued the interest of many players, who are more intrigued by Modern Warfare 3's inclusion of beloved maps instead of solely creating new ones.
There has been significant criticism regarding the recent map track record of Call of Duty, particularly in terms of 6v6 experiences. However, incorporating proven maps that have stood the test of time could greatly enhance MW3's online gaming experience. In addition to map quality, MW3 has the advantage of a greater number of 6v6 maps available at launch. Unlike MW (2019) and MW2 (2022), which only offered 10 6v6 maps upon release, MW3 provides an impressive 16. This approach to remastering is highly commendable.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that relying solely on nostalgia and recycling past content is not the optimal strategy for MW3. A strong focus on creating new and exceptional content is always the preferred option. The reliance on nostalgia, in particular, may pose challenges for the maps in MW3. This is mainly because the gameplay style in the remastered version will be significantly different from the original Modern Warfare 2. While the maps themselves are generally well-structured, their memorability is closely associated with the fast-paced and arcade-like gameplay of MW2, which differs from the modern Call of Duty experience.
The impact of this can already be seen in how these maps will be implemented in Modern Warfare 3. Rumors suggest that numerous multiplayer maps in MW3 will undergo changes, such as the addition of functional doors in certain buildings. While these changes are intended to align the maps with the current gameplay of CoD, they might also deviate from the original feel of the maps, potentially disappointing the loyal fans they initially appealed to. Although using MW2 maps could provide a temporary boost for MW3's launch content, it could also pose long-term issues if they do not seamlessly integrate with the franchise's more deliberate and strategic gameplay. Modern Warfare 3 is set to release on November 10 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.